Frequently asked questions

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is a way of providing Australians under 65 who have a permanent or significant disability, with funding to receive the necessary care and support to achieve their goals and get through their everyday life.

Eligibility requirements for NDIS can vary for different people and situations. Basic requirements include:

• Aged between 7 to 65
• Holds Australian Citizenship, Australian Permanent Residency, or holds a Protected Special Category Visa
• Requires support from another person due to permanent or significant disability
• Uses special equipment related to permanent or significant disability
• Requires support to assist with future needs and tasks

NDIS is designed to provide you with support and care services to improve your everyday life and health. The amount of funding you receive is based on your individual plan and needs to last for the entire duration, typically 12 months after your plan started.

To help you navigate the process with ease, here’s a step-by-step guide to access the NDIS  ensuring you achieve your goals.

1. Check whether you’re eligible for NDIS funding. Click here to find out.
2. If eligible, apply for NDIS over the phone or by submitting a form.
3. You will be assigned a Local Area Coordinator who will work with you to develop your individual plan based on what you’d like to achieve, how you will achieve it and how you will be supported.
4. Once it is approved by the NDIS, you will receive your plan through the NDIS online portal (myplace) and notified in person or by mail.
5. You and your Local Area Coordinator will use myplace, NDIS local advertising or recommendations to choose the right NDIS provider for you. Please note: You can have several different NDIS providers for your different funded supports.
6. Choose the right NDIS provider for you and set up a Service Agreement to outline how you will work together. At HCA Home, we come to you and work together to create a personalised support plan and help you get the most out of your NDIS plan.
7. Start receiving your services and supports using your NDIS plan. At HCA Home, we have regular reviews with you to ensure you’re on track to meet your goals and offer free detailed progress updates to your family and carers upon request.
8. Review your NDIS plan to continue service.

If you join HCA, we offer free assistance with your NDIS plan review. Call 1300 422 111 and speak with an NDIS specialist today.

If you meet the eligibility criteria, there are two ways you can apply for NDIS funding. You can either call NDIA on 1800 800 110 to make a Verbal Access Request (VAR) or fill out a paper Access Request Form (ARF).

1. What documentation is required?
   Completed Access Request Form (ARF) – ask your Local Area Coordinator, Early Childhood Early Intervention partner (if your child is under 7), your local NDIA office or call NDIA 1800 800 110 to receive a form.
2. Age and residency evidence – Tip: If you’re registered for Centrelink, you can give the NDIA consent to use your Centrelink record.
3. Disability evidence and how it impacts your everyday life – Tip: Ask your healthcare professional to complete Part F of ARF or an NDIA Supporting Evidence form.
4. Any existing reports or assessments.

A thing to remember:

When NDIS participants turn 65, they have the option to stay in the scheme or apply to receive support through aged care services.